The shows producers are staying tight-lipped on whether Dame Shirley will perform at the event, which will include a 50th anniversary tribute to the Bond films, saying only that she will make "a special appearance".

They said: "We are thrilled to welcome the legendary Dame Shirley Bassey to our Oscar show.

"Her association with film music is world renowned and we are proud that she will be making her first Oscar appearance on our telecast."

One person who definitely is performing on the night is Adele, who will sing Skyfall live for the first time.

The show, hosted by Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane, is being held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday February 24.

Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe has also been confirmed as appearing this year alongside other big names including Charlize Theron.